Parkia biglobosa Fruit Husks: Phytochemistry, Antibacterial, and Free Radical Scavenging Activities

Abstract

Known for their role in the manufacture of eco-materials in buildings, Parkia biglobosa fruit husks are also used in folk medicine. The present study focuses on the metabolites content and antiradical, antibacterial activities of the hydroethanolic extract of P. biglobosa husks. Secondary metabolites were identified using staining and/or precipitation tests. The mineral content is determined according to the standard NF EN 14082. The antioxidant activity performed by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging capacity, and antibacterial activity strain against three Gram-negative and two Gram-positive strains by microdilution for Minimal Inhibitory Concentration. Fruit husks contain tannins, anthocyanins, leuco-anthocyanins, anthraquinones, saponins, reducing compounds, sterols, terpenes, and 1.225% of potassium. The hydroethanolic extract of P. biglobosa fruit husks scavenges the DPPH radical with an EC50 = 64 μg/ml. The extract is more active in one Gram (Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli) with a minimum inhibitory concentration of 1.25 mg/mL than the three Gram + studied. This study showed that P. biglobosa fruit husks extract could be used for its antioxidant and antibacterial activities.